The Texas Rangers came storming out of the gates in Monday’s Game 2 of the ALCS, scoring four runs in the first inning off Astros pitcher Framber Valdez. But the best highlight for the Rangers didn’t even result in a run.
With Adolis Garcia batting in the second inning against Valdez, a 2-2 cutter inside by the feet had Garcia jumping to avoid the pitch and then smoothly going into a cartwheel on the opposite side of the plate. And while it initially appeared that Garcia had avoided the pitch, it was ruled a hit by pitch and he took first base.
But let’s be honest: We won’t see a better athletic display on a hit by pitch … ever?
10/10 cartwheel by Adolis Garcia 👏😂 pic.twitter.com/piebMUxMIm
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 16, 2023
I mean, that was so smooth. He did a cartwheel, landed and seamlessly started his stroll to first base.
That’s how you know you’re playing on a different level when even the hit by pitches look cool.
This was how Twitter reacted
I’ve seen enough. Adolis for ALCS MVP https://t.co/G3bEXike3p
— garrankees (@garrywe09090229) October 16, 2023
If I was a pitcher and a hitter did a CARTWHEEL after a HBP…I'm walking straight off the field into retirement https://t.co/KOgZHzzy2q
— Robin (@joyeful) October 16, 2023
Rangers really winning the World Series. https://t.co/7IXZTTslAc
— vic (@_kraftpunkk) October 16, 2023
This is giving little kid trying to do a cartwheel and I love it https://t.co/5w6NrLDkyr
— Ashley Rodrigues (@bsbllnbkns) October 16, 2023
Who said baseball isn't an extreme sport??? https://t.co/5eOd47Gsut
— Ryan Zimmerman (@RyanZimmerman24) October 16, 2023
what in tarnation https://t.co/MmWBEbs0ow
— brin riley (@brinriley) October 16, 2023
Adolis saw Tyreek do a backflip yesterday and wanted to try gymnastics https://t.co/zZmGw4TBcN
— Ryan Chaput (@theblondbeard) October 16, 2023
This is my new favorite Rangers moment https://t.co/5ILddKral8
— EdEdd&Eddy (@_DillonDeWitt) October 16, 2023
October baseball is magical https://t.co/wHNeLE6W2F
— 💖no💖 (@DeLaAguita) October 16, 2023